Dual 1009 : Is it a good TT to buy ?

the condition of the 1009 is vital...and yes its really good.

You are prolly better off with the Rega.
If you can find a used VPI Scout in good shape and have a decent cartridge I imagine you would like it very very much. The investment in the Cart and don't forget the Phono stage may be more than you want to spend. OTOH a Scout is easy to sell.

Buy the Rega and put a Grado on it if your objective is to buy once and be happy for a long time. I sold every moving magnet made a number of years ago (Before Benz Micro was in market) Grado was then the best MM, followed by Goldring. The Dual is not a good TT and will degrade your sound. Its only virtue was that it was a step up from the Pioneers and Technics made in the 70's and 80's. Shure cartidges while they track well have a dry antiseptic sound whereas the Grado's have great base and excellent mid range tonal color.

I certainly wouldn't chuck it. The Dual 10XX tables were pretty great. I owned a 1019 for many years, and still regret getting rid of it. Like anything, condition matters as others have said. If you choose not to go ahead, sell it here or on the 'Bay, and let someone else love it.

This tuntable good in 1964 not now.